Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Do you find it hard to pay attention? Do you need to be constantly on the move even when you know you shouldn’t? These may be signs of ADHD. ADHD is not just a childhood disorder. Symptoms can begin in childhood but ADHD can continue into adolescence and adulthood.Do you find it hard to pay attention? Do you need to be constantly on the move even when you know you shouldn’t? These may be signs of ADHD. ADHD is not just a childhood disorder. Symptoms can begin in childhood but ADHD can continue into adolescence and adulthood.

What causes ADHD? Although we don’t know for sure, research suggests that it may be caused by the interactions of genes and environmental factors such as:

Low birth weight

Alcohol or drug use during pregnancy

Exposure to toxins, such as high levels of lead at a young age

Warning signs?Individuals with ADHD may show an ongoing pattern of three types of symptoms:

Difficulty paying attention (inattention)

Being overactive (hyperactivity)

Acting without thinking (impulsivity)

Treatment may include a combination of medication, education and therapy. ADHD medication can help to reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity which can improve people’s functioning. Talk to your physician about which medication may be the right one for you.

Education is a very important part of treatment and may include:

Stress management techniques which can help children, adults and family members

Support groups which can help individuals with ADHD connect with each other

PCHC is a core program of PMHCC

Funding provided by the Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health/Intellectual disAbility Services, the Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery County Offices of Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities and the Office of Developmental Programs, Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.